Hey There
Hi, I’m Maria, the therapist and practice owner behind Shooting Star Counseling. My path to this work hasn’t been a straight line—it’s been shaped by diverse experiences that all deepened my understanding of people, resilience, and what it means to live a meaningful life. ​​
​
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Italian Studies from The Univeristy of California, Berkeley and returned 8 years later to school to pursue my Masters in Counseling at Regis University, in Denver CO. I currently hold my LPCC in the state of CO, and I'm a certified life coach, able to work with clients across the United States.
All About Me
Before becoming a therapist, I worked in the tech world as a sales leader across multiple companies and teams. I know firsthand what it’s like to navigate high-pressure environments, constant change, challenging interpersonal work relationships, and the stress that comes with ambitious goals. That experience helps me connect with professionals, founders, entrepreneurs, and leaders who may feel burned out, overwhelmed, or uncertain about their path forward.
​
I also spent time working in hospice care, where I witnessed the beauty and light of loving someone, as well as the deep sorrow of grieving and the darkness that loss can bring into our lives. Outside of grief therapy, I have worked in group private practice settings, helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain/illness, low self-esteem, attachment issues, and relationship challenges. I have worked with couples and families in crisis, guiding them to stability, better communication, and improved relational dynamics.
​​
My approach integrates somatic therapy, depth-oriented work, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness, and solution focused work. I see therapy as a space where we can shine a light into dark or confusing places— finding awareness, meaning, direction, and hope.​
